Israel Railways inaugurated a new modern track measuring and recording vehicle. It is capable of working at 140 kph and able to measure the whole network in three weeks. The new vehicle is equipped with eight advance optic measuring computer systems, laser technology and DGPS indicating information on malfunctions in and around the track. Plasser & Theurer won the tender with the EM120H unit at a cost of 26 million NIS (5.7 million euros).

The current 20 year-old measuring vehicle is only capable of working at 80 kph using only two out-of-date systems. Unlike the old vehicle, the new one is equipped with a non-contacting track geometry measuring system so that conflicts with axle counter systems would now be avoided.

IR CEO Mr Boaz Zafrir said that

IR has made a significant technological step jump and would become part of the leading world railways in that field. The new vehicle will have a significant role in the development plan of the railway network in Israel in parallel to the significant train traffic growth expected in the next five years.

(Source: Israel Railways)